What Sets DPLS Apart

International Presence

With well over 300 graduates, the Doctoral Program in Leadership Studies has achieved national stature and international reach. The faculty come from diverse backgrounds and lend the program a rich experience base. Students of the program also represent a broad range of professions and cultures. Most recently the program has welcomed students from Afghanistan, Canada, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Venezuela, Zimbabwe, as well as from the Spokane Native American Nation and several other indigenous nations of the Pacific Northwest.

Accommodating
The Ph.D. program accommodates the needs of working professionals and full-time students: classes are conveniently scheduled in the evenings and on Saturdays during the regular academic year.

Summer Intensive Sessions
Summer intensive sessions make it possible to do the main coursework on campus during the “summers only” option, to fulfill some elective requirements through individualized distance study, and still complete the degree in 4-5 years.

Unique Dissertation Procedure
The program has a unique dissertation procedure that guides students through the process along four major milestones: candidacy, proposal seminar, proposal defense, and the dissertation.
National Recognition
Gonzaga University enjoys national recognition through high rankings among educational institutions.
All Are Welcome Here
The program welcomes students of all walks of life. All are welcome here.
Central principles of the Jesuit tradition of educating the whole person are practiced actively and faithfully.

Strong Foundation of Scholarship
Notably, past students’ dissertations have been honored with national dissertation awards, reflecting the strong foundation of scholarship the program provides.